Securing Networks: Defence Ministry To Now Use Its Own Operating System 'Maya' To Beat Repeated Cyber Attacks

Amidst the rising tide of Chinese cyber and malware attacks targeting defence establishments and critical infrastructure nationwide, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) will replace the Microsoft Operating System (OS) with a newly-developed OS named Maya.

According to a report by The Hindu, this indigenous system is based on the open-source Ubuntu platform.

According to an official involved in the process, Maya closely mirrors the interface and functionality of Windows, ensuring a seamless transition for users.

The immediate goal is to deploy Maya on all Internet-connected computers within South Block by 15 August.

Currently, Maya is exclusively being introduced into systems within the Defence Ministry, with plans to expand its implementation to computers connected to the networks of the three services.

The official stated that the services have thoroughly reviewed Maya, with the Indian Navy already approving it, while Indian Army and the Indian Air Force are currently evaluating its suitability.

Developed by government agencies in just six months, Maya is expected to offer robust defence against malware and cyberattacks, which have been increasingly prevalent.

In recent times, the country has witnessed a string of malicious software and ransomware attacks, some even targeting critical infrastructure. The Ministry of Defence has previously explored alternatives to the Windows OS in pursuit of a homegrown solution.